A fairground ride operator has been accused of operating a Twister ride at 50% above its maximum recommended speed limit.
A hearing at Northampton Magistrates’ Court heard the claims following an accident on 3 November 2012 at the Hollowell Steam Rally and Heavy Horse Show.
A 9-year-old girl was ejected from the ride when it was moving at approximately 50mph and was admitted to hospital, suffering heavy bruising.
The court heard from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that said it had “evidence to suggest” that the ride was running 50% faster than its maximum speed and the secondary locks on the machine were not secured.
The accused operator, Patrick McGeough, has had his case transferred to Northampton Crown Court, and he will enter a plea in December this year.
He is charged with breaching section 33 of the Health and Safety Act 2008, but has not indicated his intentions with regard to a plea.